Darts Scores: A Comprehensive Guide

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Welcome, dart enthusiasts and aspiring players! As you embark on your journey into the captivating world of darts, mastering the scoring system is a crucial step. In this comprehensive guide, we\’ll delve into the intricacies of darts scores, providing a detailed breakdown of the numbers, sectors, and scoring combinations. Whether you\’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer seeking to improve your game, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and understanding you need to calculate scores accurately and elevate your darts performance.

Darts Scores

Calculating Scores

In darts, the game is played in \”rounds\” of three darts. Each dart is thrown at a circular target that is divided into 20 segments, numbered from 1 to 20. The outer ring of the target is divided into two segments, the \”double\” and the \”treble\”. If a dart lands in one of these segments, the score for that dart is doubled or tripled, respectively. A dart landing in the space outside of the numbered segments scores 25. The maximum possible score for a single dart is 180 (60 + 60 + 60), which is achieved by hitting the treble 20 three times.

Double Ring

The double ring is located on the outer edge of the target, just inside the numbered segments. Darts landing in the double ring are worth double the value of the segment they land in. For example, a dart landing in the double 20 segment is worth 40 points. The double ring is a popular target for players as it offers the potential for high scores without the risk of missing the target completely.

Treble Ring

The treble ring is located on the inner edge of the target, just outside the double ring. Darts landing in the treble ring are worth triple the value of the segment they land in. For example, a dart landing in the treble 20 segment is worth 60 points. The treble ring is a more challenging target than the double ring, as darts must be thrown with greater accuracy in order to hit it. However, the potential rewards for hitting the treble ring are also greater.

Outside Area

The area outside of the numbered segments is known as the \”outside\” or \”bullseye\” area. Darts landing in this area score 25 points. The bullseye is located in the center of the target and is worth 50 points if hit. The outside area is a common target for players who are struggling to hit the numbered segments, as it offers a larger target area. However, the score potential is lower than if a dart is landed in a numbered segment.

Double In

The Mechanics

Double start:
The player aims for a double segment to begin the game. This is a strategic move that allows them to score higher points with fewer darts.

Double finish:
To end the game, the player must hit a double segment. This is the only way to achieve a score of 0, as the highest single segment is worth 20 points.

Bullseye finish:
As an alternative to a double finish, players can also end the game by hitting the bullseye. However, this is considered a more challenging shot and is therefore worth only 25 points.

Strategy

Starting on a double can give a player a significant advantage. By locking in 40 points immediately, they can reduce the number of darts required to win. For example, if a player starts with a double 20, they only need to score an additional 180 points to win. This is much more achievable than having to score 501 points without starting on a double.

Double finishing is equally important as double starting. By hitting a double to finish, players can ensure that they win the game with the fewest possible darts. This is crucial in competitive darts, where every dart thrown counts.

Tips

• Aim for the outer edge of the double segment to increase your chances of hitting it.
• Use a light touch and follow through with your throw to ensure accuracy.
• Practice your double shots regularly to improve your consistency.

Double Out

The Objective

The fundamental goal of Double Out is to conclude a game of darts by striking a double segment on the board. To emerge victorious, players must skilfully aim and execute a shot that lands within the designated double segment.

Achieving Success

Mastering Double Out requires a combination of precision and tactical thinking. Players must consistently hit the target and avoid the dreaded "bust," which occurs when a dart\’s score exceeds the player\’s remaining total. Additionally, players should strive for a "bogey finish," which involves landing on a double segment after surpassing the 170-point mark.

Strategy and Tactics

To increase the likelihood of a successful Double Out, players can employ various strategies. Firstly, it is advisable to leave a favorable score after the first two darts, ideally between 100 and 160 points. This range provides a comfortable cushion and minimizes the risk of busting.

Secondly, players should carefully consider the placement of their darts on the board. Aiming for double segments directly opposite one another can be a wise choice as it allows for a wide margin of error. Additionally, targeting adjacent double segments can provide a backup option if the initial shot falls short.

Thirdly, players should not hesitate to take calculated risks. While it is always wise to prioritize accuracy, sometimes it is necessary to attempt a more challenging shot to improve the odds of a successful Double Out.

Finally, players should remain composed and focused throughout the Double Out process. Nerves can often cloud judgment, so it is crucial to maintain a clear head and a steady hand.

The Importance of Practice

Like all aspects of darts, Double Out proficiency is honed through consistent practice. Dedicate ample time to honing your aim and developing a strategy that suits your playing style. With dedication and perseverance, you will undoubtedly elevate your Double Out game and emerge as a formidable opponent.

Outshots

Outshots are darts that are not thrown at a specific target number but are instead used to clear the board or to score points. There are a number of different outshot options available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Options to Finish

Ton Finish: A ton finish is a finish that totals 100 points or more. This can be done in a variety of ways, but the most common methods are to hit a triple 20 and then a double 20, or to hit three double 20s.

Shanghai Finish: A Shanghai finish is a finish that totals 121 points. This is done by hitting a double 18, a triple 18, and a double bull.

Robin Hood: A Robin Hood is a dart that hits the previous dart in the same segment. This is a very difficult shot to make, but it is worth 100 points if successful.

Other Outshot Options

In addition to the three main outshot options listed above, there are a number of other outshots that can be used to clear the board or to score points. These include:

• Bullseye: Hitting the bullseye is worth 50 points.
• Double Bull: Hitting the double bull is worth 100 points.
• Triple Bull: Hitting the triple bull is worth 150 points.
• Double Ring: Hitting the outer ring of the board is worth 25 points.
• Single Ring: Hitting the inner ring of the board is worth 15 points.

Choosing the Right Outshot

The best outshot to use depends on a number of factors, including the player\’s skill level, the number of darts remaining, and the score that needs to be cleared. Players should practice a variety of outshots so that they can be prepared for any situation.

Variations

Alternative Rules

Alongside the standard rules of darts, there are numerous variations that offer unique challenges and add variety to the game:

301 Single Out: This variation requires players to finish on a single segment, rather than a double or triple. This adds an extra layer of difficulty, as players must carefully plan their shots to avoid overshooting and going bust.

Round the Clock: In this variation, players must complete all numbers in order, from 1 to 20. This requires precision and consistency, as players must hit each number in the correct sequence. The first player to complete all numbers wins the game.

Hi/Lo: In Hi/Lo, players calculate their scores based on the order in which they hit numbers. Hitting a number in ascending order (1, 2, 3, etc.) adds points to their score, while hitting numbers in descending order (20, 19, 18, etc.) deducts points. The player with the highest score after a set number of rounds wins.

Unique Game Formats

In addition to alternative rules, there are also various unique game formats that offer different ways to play darts:

Cricket: Cricket is a popular variation where players aim to \”close\” numbers by hitting them three times, with the first hit being worth 1 point, the second 3 points, and the third 5 points. Players can also \”bust\” numbers by hitting them six times, which scores negative points. The player with the highest score at the end of the game wins.

Killer: In Killer, each player has a designated \”killer\” number. The goal is to hit your opponent\’s killer number three times before they hit yours. If a player hits their own killer number, they lose a life. The last player with lives remaining wins.

Bob\’s 27: Bob\’s 27 is a fast-paced variation where the goal is to reach 27 points exactly. Players must hit single segments, doubles, or triples to accumulate points, but going over 27 results in losing points. The first player to reach 27 exactly wins.